News

MLA: Flooding Impacts Markets

30 January 2013

AUSTRALIA - Throughput at the markets was down 19 per cent at the Central Tableland Livestock Exchange and a decrease in consignments elsewhere forced up the cattle indicator up 12.25¢/kg cwt, reports Meat and Livestock Australia.

Rain restricts throughput

Numbers reduced significantly this week as wide spread flooding across southern Queensland and northern NSW has cut roads and restricted stock movements. The Australia day long weekend also contributed to reduced yarding across the state.

MLA
MLA reported the Roma store was the only Queensland market operating, albeit at reduced numbers, while Forbes, Inverell, Tamworth and Wagga were closed due to the Monday holiday.

Consignments at CTLX were back 19 per cent, while Goulburn, Gunnedah and Scone had significantly reduced yardings. Throughput in Victoria was reduced as Shepparton yarded 6 per cent less although more vealers were offered than last week.

Numbers at Wodonga lifted with good runs of grown steers and bullocks offered. Consignments in SA were back with Naracoorte yarding 50 per cent less cattle.

Quality still plain

Quality across all categories remains mixed despite the reduction in supply across the eastern states. Secondary lines suitable for restocker and feeder buyer remain abundant, however well finished young cattle are scattered through markets at Scone and Camperdown.

The usual buyers were present at markets, with most restocker and feeders competed well for the reduced numbers of stock. Processors were also active on well condition cows and bullocks available, however the usual buyers were absent at Roma, and not operating at Camperdown.

Prices surge

At the conclusion of Tuesdays markets the Eastern Young Cattle Indicator (EYCI) finished on 324.75¢, up 12.25¢/kg cwt due to a reduction in supply. Trade steers settled on 171¢, up 6¢ on last week while feeder steers averaged 175¢/kg.